Though most people can become susceptible to gambling, certain groups are more vulnerable to it. People in their early 20s are the fastest-growing group of gamblers. 64.5% of Canadians aged 15+ have reported gambling *in the past year*. Men are the most vulnerable to gambling in this group, with men being more likely to gamble than women. Men are also more susceptible to be at moderate-to-severe risk of problems related to gambling. This demographic most often participates in the newest forms of gambling: sports betting and video game-based gambling. Additionally, gambling addiction often coincides with other forms of addiction and disorders. An estimated 96% of people with gambling problems have at least one other psychiatric disorder. Substance use disorders, impulse-control disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders are particularly common among people with gambling problems.

Mental Health

Problem gambling can take a toll on one’s mental health and well-being. Gambling can cause stress, low self-esteem and self-worth, anxiousness and depression when done frequently. Individuals at high risk of problem gambling are more likely to face severe mental health issues:

Gamification

Online gambling platforms have implemented built-in game mechanics that deliver design affordances to optimize loyalty and trigger end-user enthusiasm. Gamified apps, which create easy-to-access platforms with reward systems, may exacerbate the frequency of gambling for those who partake in it. The gamification system in gambling is perpetuated by people’s familiarity with gambling games. Studies show that by adolescence, roughly 40% of people have played a simulated gambling game. This familiarity with spending monetary resources towards gaining rewards sparks an interest in the real-world equivalent, making the switch from simulated gambling to actual gambling easier.